Halloween candy and decorations have been on the supermarket shelves for weeks. The pumpkin spice lattes are already frothing at Starbucks. And holiday bookings (airlines, restaurants, hotels) are in full play.
Our annual transition to fall is usually a welcome one, especially since it signals the approach of the holidays. But for some, this shift in seasons can lead to mood disorders and mental health challenges.
Autumn, in particular, can bring on mood changes known as Seasonal Affective Disorder, a type of recurring depression that can cause feelings of sadness, fatigue, anxiety, and sleep disturbances.
While reduced exposure to sunlight (which can disrupt the production of serotonin and melatonin that regulate mood and sleep) is often cited as a factor, the exact cause of SAD is not known.
What is known, according to the National Institute of Mental Health: SAD occurs much more often in women than men; it begins in young adults in most cases; and is more common in people with depression or bipolar disorder. It is estimated that millions of Americans experience SAD, though they may not know it, NIMH stated.
Signs of SAD include low mood, listlessness or sadness; fluctuations in weight and appetite; altered sleep patterns such as oversleeping; lethargy and agitation; difficulty in concentrating; and feelings of hopelessness, worthlessness, or guilt. You or a loved one may be suffering from SAD if these sound familiar. If so, talk to your healthcare provider about possible treatments.
Common treatments:
There may be no cure for SAD, but self-care goes a long way to improving your overall quality of life that will help you better manage symptoms. General well-being practices include regular exercise, healthy diet, and maintaining social connections that provide emotional support.
Black Horse Health specializes in substance use disorder, pain, trauma, addiction and co-occurring mental health. Whatever the season, our staff is ready to offer effective treatment and compassion that supports your recovery and enhances your wellness journey.
Recovery, mental health stability, and chronic pain relief all start with clarity.
With an intensive assessment in Houston at Black Horse Health, you gain the insights, direction, and expert support you need to move forward with confidence.
Your healing starts here. Let’s take the first step together.
